Last year, the management was simpler: Justin Barron and Arber Xhekaj were sent to Laval without going through waivers, Lane Hutson was still in the NCAA, and Mailloux was in the AHL.
This year, Barron, Xhekaj, and Jordan Harris will be waiver-eligible, and Lane Hutson is expected to join Montreal.
Barron might have an advantage due to his status, but Mailloux, who also deserves a spot on the team, could be forced to remain in Laval to continue his development.
If Hughes fails to trade a defenseman, Mailloux might be sent to Laval, which would slow his progress. It would be unfortunate to hinder a promising young talent like Mailloux due to management reasons.
